On the bottom two decks, we planted tomatoes (6 varietals!), zucchini and sunflowers (from seed).

All of our transplants and seeds, purchased at SLOAT, are locally sourced and non-GMO. As you can see from the photos, we are still getting free “organic” irrigation from the sky.

When it’s all said and done (soil amendment, transplants, seeds, irrigation, etc), I estimate the cost of growing food at home exceeds the cost of buying it at the store.

Having said that, there is a certain satisfaction in growing your own food, knowing where it comes from, how it is grown and it’s a great lesson and fun experience for our children.

If you have ever considered growing food at home but have yet to try it, I would recommend planting a DIY starter kit in a small area of your backyard to get some experience. I saw a product called SeedSheet on a recent episode of SHARK TANK, which I thought was a brilliantly easy way to start your own garden.